Want Healthy Teeth? Avoid These 4 Popular Trends!

Trends come and go. Most of them are harmless, and some of them are fun or even silly. However, a number of them are downright harmful. For example, some people have adopted so-called “health” trends in an effort to improve their overall wellness. Unfortunately, they may inadvertently end up harming their smile. If you want to maintain healthy teeth, you should avoid these trends:

DIY Braces

Braces from an orthodontist can cost thousands of dollars, so it is understandable that some people try to save money by making their own braces at home. They might use items like paper clips, rubber bands, and other common objects to put pressure on their teeth. Unfortunately, DIY attempts at teeth straightening rarely turn out well. If you try this trend, you may end up worsening your dental misalignment. You could also cause irreversible damage to your teeth. It is best to invest in professional care right from the start.

Filing Teeth

Sadly, a trend has developed on TikTok that shows people using nail files to reshape their teeth. It started out as a joke, but unfortunately, a number of people have taken it seriously and irreversibly altered their smile. They end up with peg-like teeth that are neither attractive nor healthy. Then, they place DIY veneers or other restorations on them.

Unsafe Teeth Whitening

There are lots of valid reasons to want to whiten your teeth. For example, some people find that their teeth are slightly discolored after they get their braces removed. There are lots of safe products, available either over the counter or from a general dentist, that can whiten teeth safely. Why, then, would anyone choose to risk their oral health on unsafe whitening methods? Some people have even resorted to using household cleaners, while others use charcoal or extremely acidic foods in their attempt to brighten their smiles.

Using Fluoride-Free Toothpaste

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can play a large role in preventing tooth decay. The vast majority of dental professionals advise their patients to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste. Unfortunately, some people have begun claiming that fluoride is toxic, and they encourage others to use fluoride-free oral hygiene products.

The truth is that fluoride is only dangerous if it is ingested in extremely large quantities. Decades of research have established fluoride as a safe and beneficial toothpaste ingredient. If you have braces, it is especially important to use the right type of toothpaste; decay could slow down the progress of your orthodontic treatment.

When in Doubt, Err on the Side of Caution

If you are ever tempted to try a hot new health trend, thoroughly research the potential outcomes before you make any decisions. Feel free to ask your dentist or orthodontist how certain actions might affect your smile. Your diligence could prevent you from doing something you’ll regret!

Meet the Practice

The three doctors at Serenity Orthodontics are proud to serve patients at six convenient locations. If you have questions about braces, the safest methods to straighten teeth, or anything else that relates to your orthodontic health, our team would love to consult with you. Contact us via our website or call our Windermere office at 678-879-3006.